The Student American Veterinary Medical Association (SAVMA) Symposium is held annually for veterinary students with participation by international vet students. U.C. Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in Davis, California, hosted the 2011 Symposium March 24-26. 

“It is a chance for veterinary students across the country to meet, attend lectures, wet labs, and day trips, and to have experiences they may not have an opportunity to explore in their normal curriculum back home,” said Arielle Sherrard, an Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine student and a member of the class of 2013 .

In addition to the programs and lectures, schools also participate in friendly athletic and academic-based competitions.  “This year, Auburn placed in the top three of several academic events,” said Sherrard.

SAVMA Symposium Academic Competitions

• Bovine Palpation - First Place, Auburn University 
  Written and practical portions of bovine dairy reproduction
• Freshman Anatomy – First Place, Auburn University 
  Challenge lab questions pertaining to canine and feline gross anatomy
• Radiology – Second Place, Auburn University 
  Challenge questions covering large and small animals, exotics, regional anatomy, and radiology technology concepts

SAVMA membership is open to any full-time student enrolled in a program of study leading directly to a professional veterinary degree granted by a school or college of veterinary medicine. The SAVMA Symposium is an educational opportunity that exposes students to a variety of topics outside their typical curriculum, while offering unique networking experiences and career building skills.

The symposium is held by a veterinary school chosen by the SAVMA House of Delegates two years prior to the event. Purdue University hosts Symposium 2012 and Symposium 2013 will be held at Louisiana State University.

Contact: Tara Lanier, 334-844-3698, tara.lanier@auburn.edu